Madisonville

Here in Hopkins County, there are plenty of opportunities to eat, relax and play! We have put together an itinerary that covers three areas: Food, Activities, and Historical experiences. Make sure you don't miss out on any of these attractions!

Click here for the full itinerary with helpful links!

Lunch: With over 80 local restaurants you will find no shortage of good food! 

• Country Cupboard- A southern cooking, all you-can-eat buffet with menu and sandwich options as well!
• Calhoun Meats- For a lighter option, visit Calhoun Meats for a lunch special like their amazing ribeye sandwich, or go for a classic cold-cut sandwich and enjoy a picnic at Mahr Park Arboretum!  

Afternoon: With 265 acres to explore, spend the afternoon (or all day!) taking in nature’s beauty! 

• Mahr Park Arboretum - The crown jewel of Madisonville! This park was the farm of the late Dr. Merle and Mrs. Glema Mahr. With its rolling hills, mature trees, ponds, and shoreline on Lake Pee Wee, the park maintains and preserves a natural environment for native birds, fish, wildlife, plants and wildflowers. Explore the park on paved trails or go off the beaten path and hike the soft trails through 40 acres of wooded landscape. Find your perfect fishing spot at one of the numerous ponds or paddle out onto 420-acre Lake Pee Wee on your canoe or kayak. Other features of the park include an 18-hole championship disc golf course and a 9-hole recreational disc golf course, handicap accessible kayak/canoe launch, nature play areas, event space rentals, community gardens, dog parks for small and large dogs, picnic pavilions, restroom facilities and handicap accessible parking.

Dinner & Evening: After a day at the park, it’s time to enjoy a good meal! 

• The Crowded House- Madisonville’s first gastropub! It’s a local hotspot for amazing food and live music on Saturday nights.
• Tradewater Brewing Co. - With a rotating tap of beer and food trucks, Tradewater is a great family-friendly hangout. With local and seasonal brews, they have a variety of indoor games and host events like trivia nights, silent discos, and live music.  

Stay: After a long day, check-in and get some rest! Take your pick of our top lodging options, which can be found on our website.

Sweet Treats: Dessert is always acceptable on vacation! 

• Dempsey Street Baking Co.- Offering a variety of cupcakes and cookies, they fill their case with tasty treats on Thursdays & Fridays! From familiar favorites to unique and seasonal flavors, it’s hard to decide which one to try first!
• Maggie’s Cakes & More- Maggie’s offers gourmet cupcakes, cookies, cake crumbles, and other desserts. We recommend the fruit pizza sugar cookie! They also take custom orders and made-to-order cakes for any occasion! 

Afternoon: Your day, your way! 

• Shopping- If shopping is your bag, you’ll find a retail paradise in Madisonville and Hopkins County. Spend the afternoon exploring the unique offerings of local gift shops, boutiques, and antique stores! A full directory of shopping destinations can be found on our website. 
• Spa- Pamper yourself! Whether you are looking for a romantic couples massage, facials for a fun girl’s day, or a more personal relaxing getaway, you will find it here! Relax, unwind, and enjoy! Most salons and spas do require reservations, so be sure to book before you visit! Check out our website for a list of spas and contact information! 
• Revisit Mahr Park Arboretum- With so much to do, we don’t blame you for heading back to Mahr Park Arboretum to soak up all that nature has to offer. Rent a bike, kayak, or paddleboat, bait a hook, or simply sit and enjoy the views!

Evening: There’s always something going on! Tune in to local arts and events by planning your visit around a festival or event! Check out our event calendar to see all current and upcoming events.

• Glema Mahr Center for the Arts- With over 20 shows in their current season, there’s plenty to choose from! From classical music and plays to national touring musicians and dinner theaters, they offer a wide variety of entertainment! 
• Anne P Baker Art Gallery- Located in the same building as the Glema Mahr Center for the Arts, this gallery features a rotating display of exhibits. Open M-F from 10 am-4 pm with extended hours during Glema Center events. Check the calendar for a schedule of exhibits. 
• Melody Lanes- A family tradition for more than 50 years! With 20 lanes, special programs and promotions, and great food at the diner, Melody Lanes is a great place to spend the evening.

Dinner: End your visit with dinner at one of these great local steakhouses! 

• Green’s Steakhouse- Chow down on tender, perfectly seasoned steaks in one of downtown Madisonville’s oldest buildings. Aside from steak, Green’s Steakhouse serves pasta, salads, and delicious sides.
• Oasis Southwest Grill- With a full bar, patio dining, and party room, The Oasis is western Kentucky’s tropical retreat! Famous for their carved-in-house steaks and chops, the “Big O” blooming onion, and tangy ribs.